Kiwi bears fruit in Newport victory

It was a second win in a row for the men from Forton Road, and their first away from the comforts of home.

The success was achieved without four key first team players through unavailability or injury.

Full-back Toby Mann and back row man Adam Greaves were unable to make it, while Matthew Ings is suffering with a sternum injury.

James Curgenven had returned to the bench a week earlier after breaking his arm, but was forced to go back in plaster after feeling pain during training last Tuesday.

New Zealander Omar Suleiman ran in his first try for the club while Tomasi Tanumi kicked three penalties to put the seal on a hard-fought victory.

"Everybody was overjoyed with the victory," said director of rugby Ray Price.

"Omar's making an early impression and the lads toughed it out well to hold on for the win, because Longton's a difficult place to go.

"They've had a difficult start like us, but it's never easy to go and win there so we're delighted."

Luctonians are finally up and running after winning their first league game of the season with a 27-14 victory over local rivals Malvern.

Malvern lead 14-7 at the interval, but the Lucs fought back to dominate the game in the second half in the gusty conditions at Mortimer Park.

Luctonians piled on the pressure in the early stages to take the lead when Steve Jaques crashed over for a try which was converted by Mike Thompson.

Paul Hulland then got two second half tries, both converted by Thompson - who then got the fourth try himself as well as kicking another penalty.

"It was a game of two halves when the gusty conditions made it difficult for both sides," said spokesman Robin East.

Hereford gained their third win of the season when they cruised to a 66-12 victory over bottom-of-the-table Bedford Athletic.

The Wyesiders, who lost 50-8 at top of the table Ampthill seven days earlier, completely dominated their opponents, running in 10 tries.

Adam Knight led their charge with a hat-trick of tries, with Harry Jenkins, Sean Day, Adam Gwynne all scoring two and Gary Preece claiming one.

Ian Powell converted seven with Colin Osborne adding another two points to complete the rout.

By CHRIS HUDSON